By ship
This is not currently possible. The Dearne and Dove Canal runs through Barnsley, but is mostly derelict today. However, the Barnsley, Dearne and Dove Canals Trust (http://www.bddct.org.uk/) is trying to restore the canal to full working order.
By bus
The Transport Interchange includes an extensive bus terminal with services to neighbouring villages and nearby towns and cities.
By plane
Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport
Leeds Bradford Airport
Manchester Airport
East Midlands Airport
Humberside Airport
All the above are within 2 hours drive of Barnsley. Manchester has the most connections and airlines, but the budget and charter airlines tend to use the other airports. Easyjet is an exception, because it uses both Manchester and Doncaster airports.
By train
Barnsley railway station, part of Barnsley Transport Interchange (http://www.btint.co.uk/) is in the town centre. There are regular services throughout the day to Sheffield, Leeds, Wakefield , Nottingham, Chesterfield and Huddersfield, plus a handful of direct services to London St Pancras. A wide range of national services are available in Sheffield, Leeds and Doncaster for connections.
By car
The M1 motorway is the main route into Barnsley as it runs through the centre of the town.
Rail based Park and Ride facilities are available, see National Park and Ride Directory (http://www.parkandride.ne...)